Resources Archives - Child Life Mommy

Cool Cast Critters: Spotlight and Giveaway

July 11, 2022July 11, 2022Child Life Mommy

Having a fractured limb can be tough for kids. They have to adapt to this heavy and awkward device while being careful to not get it wet or dirty. I’m excited to share a new resource that can help, Cool Cast Critter.

Guest Blogger, Maureen Jurgelas

The Cool Cast Company was founded in 2020 by Maureen Jurgelas who had the vision to help children cope with the trauma of a broken arm and the stigma of wearing a cast. She has volunteered for Canine Assistants for years and witnessed how animals change the lives of children. Combining her passions, she created Cool Cast Critters, plush animals worn over a child’s arm cast for comfort and fun. They are patented, SGS safety certified for kids ages 3 and up, and machine washable. When the cast comes off they transform into a hand puppet for continued adventures.

Where to purchase

There are four different Cool Cast Critters to choose from. Click here to learn more.

We will be giving away a package of all 4 Cost Cast Critters to one lucky winner.

Choose one or more ways to enter:

1. Sign up for email notifications at ChildLifeMommy.com and leave a comment below.

2. Facebook: Follow Child Life Mommy and tag two friends.

3. Facebook: Follow Cool Cast Co. and leave a comment about the giveaway.

4. Instagram: Follow @ChildLifeMommy and @CoolCastCo and tag two friends in the post.

Good Luck, the winner will be chosen on 7/14/22. Open to US residents.

Supporting Children in Hospice: Podcast Interview

July 2, 2022Child Life Mommy

I’m thrilled to have had another opportunity to speak with Katie Taylor, Certified Child Life Specialist and Founder of Child Life on Call. I have had the privilege to share my work as a specialist in private practice, advocating for my kids with learning differences, and now working with children in hospice.

This is a really challenging population that specialists can work in. I look at it as an honor to be able to be present with a family and hold a safe space for them during a vulnerable and critical time.

Take a listen to our twelve-minute talk on how to best support families when their child is on hospice. Be sure to follow Child Life on Call on Instagram, and Facebook, and subscribe to their amazing podcast.

Giving Parents a Voice: Child Life on Call Podcast

Moving in Forever

Helping My Kids Cope with a Learning Difference

Caroline’s Infusion Day: Spotlight and Giveaway

May 13, 2022Child Life Mommy

I’m thrilled to feature another amazing author with a fantastic children’s book., Caroline’s Infusion Day This book has now become my new go-to resource to support young children coping with a chronic illness that is treated with infusions. Learn more about the book and be sure to enter the giveaway for a chance to win your own copy.

Guest Blogger, Kelly Brennan, Author of Caroline’s Infusion Day

About the book:

Sweet Caroline has to get infusions to stay healthy. At first, getting her infusions seemed really scary, but Caroline teaches us that maybe they’re not so bad! Caroline takes you through the process of her treatment day, from the moment she wakes up until the moment she goes to bed. Witness her feelings as the IV is inserted, and see what her nurse uses to help take the pain away. When it’s time for her vitals, you’ll learn the 3 things that are monitored to make sure Caroline is feeling okay. As her day goes on, you’ll see Caroline do fun, simple activities you can try to incorporate on your treatment day, too!

Who it’s intended for:

This book is for any child and their family who bravely conquer treatment days! Best for ages 2-7.

Where to purchase:

The book is available on Amazon and Kelly’s website

Why we wrote it:

When my daughter was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease before her second birthday, I realized regular IVIG treatments were going to be her future. As I tried to prepare her for what she was going to experience, I couldn’t find any children’s books or TV shows about getting an IV, using a tourniquet, or having medicine flow through a child’s body all day. It was at this moment I knew I wanted to create a resource for young children.

My 16-year-old niece did the illustrations, and she incorporated bright colors to keep the book positive and engaging. We worked hard to make sure it was accurate, but not fearful. Our hope is children will find a connection to it and realize they aren’t alone in their brave battles – and that infusions can in fact be fun!

We will be giving away a copy of Caroline’s Infusion Day to one lucky winner.